What's next for UFC contender Stipe Miocic? 'I'm not much of a caller-outer guy'

What's next for UFC contender Stipe Miocic? 'I'm not much of a caller-outer guy'

If you’re expecting UFC heavyweight Stipe Miocic to steal headlines with bold statements following his huge win over Gabriel Gonzaga at UFC on FOX 10, prepare to be disappointed.

Miocic (11-1 MMA, 5-1 UFC), who outpointed Gonzaga (16-8 MMA, 11-7 UFC) en route to a unanimous decision-victory this past Saturday night at Chicago’s United Center, is not the type to stir the pot and call out his fellow heavyweight contenders. Moreover, he’s not even willing to narrow down a list of who or when he would like to fight next.

The 31-year-old seems to have a carefree attitude when it comes to the progression of his career, and that’s why he has no preference about what’s next after defeating Gonzaga.

“I’ll fight whoever they want me to fight,” Miocic told MMAjunkie Radio. “I’m not much of a caller-outer guy.”

With UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez sidelined with an injury for most of the year, all the contenders are jockeying for position so they’re as close to the front of the line when the champ returns.

Miocic is a prominent member of that group, and with five wins in six UFC appearances, he’s much closer to earning a shot at the belt than many others.

While one more win over the right opponent could slide Miocic into a championship bout, the Ohio native claims he’s in no rush to get the gold.

“[The belt] is always in the back of my mind,” Miocic said. “But I’ve just got to take it one fight at a time and keep winning. That’s the name of the game.”

More often than not, the reality in the MMA world is athletes are rewarded if they push hard for something they want and make their voice heard. That may work for some fighters, but when it comes to Miocic, he’s content with his place and doesn’t want to demand more than he deserves.

“I’m just happy where I’m at,” Miocic said. “I’m just blessed and lucky.”

Regardless of his approach to fighting, the fact remains Miocic is still one of the best in his weight class, and with that comes the guarantee of stiff competition every time out. He’s happy to fight anyone, any place, any time – just don’t expect him to be the one making any demands.

“I love what I do,” Miocic said. “So as long as I’m in an octagon, then whatever.”

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